THERMAL ANALYSIS AND COOLING OPTIMIZATION OF LITHIUM-ION BATTERY PACKS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in electric vehicles due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and superior performance. However, excessive heat generation during charging and discharging can lead to temperature rise, reduced efficiency, accelerated aging, and safety concerns such as thermal runaway. Therefore, effective thermal management is essential to ensure battery reliability and operational safety. This study presents a thermal analysis and cooling optimization of lithium-ion battery packs for electric vehicle applications. The thermal behavior of a lithium-ion battery pack is investigated under different operating conditions, and the performance of natural air cooling, forced air cooling, and liquid cooling systems is evaluated. Key parameters such as maximum battery temperature, temperature distribution, and cooling effectiveness are analyzed to determine the most efficient cooling strategy. The results indicate that the optimized liquid cooling system provides superior heat dissipation and temperature uniformity compared to conventional air-cooling methods. A significant reduction in peak battery temperature is achieved, enhancing battery performance, safety, and lifespan. The proposed cooling optimization approach offers an effective solution for improving the thermal management of lithium-ion battery packs in modern electric vehicles.